It’s a new chapter for Piedmont University and the City of Demorest following a recent city council meeting.
Council members voted unanimously to settle ongoing litigation with Piedmont over water and sewer rates. The university filed suit against the city in 2020, claiming the rates the city imposed were fraudulent. Per the settlement, the city will pay the university $70,000.
Demorest Mayor and Piedmont University alumnus Jerry Harkness said the settlement is a new beginning for all involved.
“I’m glad to have this lawsuit settled and behind us, and I’m ready for us to move forward together in a positive direction,” he said.
Piedmont President Marshall Criser said the school and city can now proceed as “partners, not parties.”